Executive Director – Fabrication Engineering

We are seeking a visionary and technically strong Executive Director – Fabrication Engineering to lead all engineering initiatives related to fabrication processes, systems design, and production readiness across our global operations. This role combines strategic oversight with deep technical expertise in metal fabrication, structural systems, and manufacturing process development. The ideal candidate will drive innovation, ensure manufacturing scalability, and align engineering efforts with long-term business goals.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Strategic Fabrication Engineering Leadership

• • Define and execute the company-wide fabrication engineering strategy aligned with product and operational goals.

  • Champion the development and integration of advanced fabrication technologies.

2. Fabrication Process Innovation

• • Oversee design, analysis, and implementation of processes involving welding, cutting, forming, machining, and assembly.

  • Introduce automation, robotics, and digital tools to improve fabrication efficiency and quality.

3. Cross-Functional Integration

• • Collaborate with Product Development, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure robust product manufacturability.

  • Align fabrication engineering initiatives with NPI (New Product Introduction) and continuous improvement goals.

4. Global Engineering Governance

• • Establish global standards, specifications, and best practices for fabrication and mechanical system design.

  • Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory, safety, and quality standards (e.g., ASME, AWS, ISO).

5. Talent and Team Development

• • Build and lead high-performing teams of engineers, designers, and technical program managers.

  • Foster a culture of engineering excellence, innovation, and accountability.

Core Responsibilities:

• • Lead fabrication engineering activities across all product platforms and production sites.

  • Drive technical excellence in structural design, material selection, and manufacturing process optimization.

  • Develop capital plans for fabrication capabilities, including facility upgrades and equipment investment.

  • Oversee complex design reviews, failure analysis, and root cause investigations for fabrication-related issues.

  • Guide adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., digital twins, smart fabrication, real-time monitoring).

  • Ensure readiness of fabrication processes for scalability, cost control, and time-to-market acceleration.

  • Represent fabrication engineering in executive-level decision-making, customer discussions, and investor reviews.

Required Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.

  • 15+ years of progressive experience in fabrication or mechanical engineering, with 7+ years in executive or senior leadership roles.

  • Deep expertise in metal fabrication, welding, sheet metal, machining, robotics, and automated assembly.

  • Strong understanding of engineering design principles, product lifecycle management, and lean manufacturing.

  • Experience with enterprise systems (ERP, PLM), CAD/CAE tools, and data-driven decision-making.

Preferred Qualifications:

• • Executive experience in aerospace, automotive, industrial equipment, infrastructure, or energy sectors.

  • Familiarity with global manufacturing environments, supply chain complexity, and regulatory compliance.

  • Certifications in ASME, AWS, Six Sigma, or PMP.

  • Proven track record in leading product industrialization and greenfield/brownfield projects.